She had suffered five skull fractures, a fractured hand and fingers, and lacerations to her hand, and spent nine days in a coma.

Police say she continues to suffer physical and emotional injury as a result of the attack.

The suspect was soon identified as Stafasani, who lived in Brunswick Court, Islington, and knew the victim. His DNA was found at the scene.

The 49-year-old is seen leaving his victim's flat in Fulham with the crowbar he attacked her with (Image: Met Police)

He was arrested in Brent on May 11 and charged the following day.

The Albanian was sentenced to a total of 18 years imprisonment for the attempted murder and 11 years for aggravated burglary. The sentences will run concurrently.

The judge also issued him with an extended licence of four years due to him being deemed a dangerous offender.

Stafasani was captured at the address in Seagrave Road, Fulham, by CCTV (Image: Met Police)

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Damian Ash said afterwards: “This was a particularly heinous attack in the victim’s own home, which involved careful and premeditated planning by Stafasani.

“He abseiled into her flat and lay in wait before carrying out a vicious attack and leaving her for dead.

Fatmir Stafasani seen leaving the scene (Image: Met Police)

“We do not know the motive behind this attack. Fatmir Stafasani has remained silent throughout, and even now has shown no emotion.”

He paid tribute to the courage shown by the victim since the attack, and added: “The investigation team and I hope she can continue to make the best possible recovery.”

Keep up to date with the latest news in west London via the free getwestlondon app.

You can even set it to receive push notifications for all the breaking news in your area